1. YEAR AHEAD FOR ART STUDENTS
This session will give you:
An introduction to the various routes an art student can take
An introduction to the application process
an introduction to a portfolio
overview of how to approach developing a portfolio
tips on what to include
Nicola Macro

2. Various routes SWCHS art courses: A level Art and Design
Further Education
HND and HNCs
Foundation Diploma in Art and Design:
- Local college
- College in another area
- Universities
Apprenticeships:
More info via career appointment with Hazel Revell
SWCHS art courses:
A level Art and Design
A level Art and Textiles
A level Photography
CT Diploma in Art and Design
Higher Education:
Local college
College in another area
Universities
We will be focusing on the Further Education and Higher Education area of progression

3. Foundation Diploma The traditional route for Art students
Not necessarily for students that don’t get grades needed for uni
Offers students the opportunity to explore a range of disciplines before deciding on their specialism for university
Tariff points available from studying the qualification
CRC offers a fantastic course
Our students are favoured by CRC
Presently 3 days a week contact time at CRC
UAL (University of the Arts) awarding body
No fees if studied at local college/centre
Students normally apply direct
You can make as many applications to foundation courses as you wish
Students could apply to both university courses and Foundation courses

4. Application process for foundation
Visit open days to understand course structure and facilities
Application process is normally open from January
Apply direct to college
Make as many applications as you wish
No specific cut off date for application. They can be made as late as summer term (although be aware places maybe limited)
Students will be invited for an interview where they will take their portfolio

5. Degree courses
There are hundreds of courses, from broad to specific courses. Here are some examples.
Animation
Architecture
Design Crafts
Design Products
Digital Art
Fine Art
Game Art
Graphic Design
Interior Design
Photography and Video
Product Design
Fashion Design
Footwear Design
Textile Design
Theatre Design
Art conservation

6. Application process for UCAS
Visit open days to understand course structure and facilities
UCAS application starts in 12-13
Make up to 5 course choices
Applications are sent off in term 1B
Students should avoid sending UCAS application too early to ensure they have suitable work for their portfolio
Students maybe be invited to submit an online portfolio
Students may also be invited for an interview they will need to show their portfolio as well as a drawing or written test on the day

7. Purpose of a portfolio skills to fulfil the demands of the course
It’s to show centres:
potential
suitability for the course
capabilities and skills
creative interests
And most importantly, to assess whether students have the under-pinning
skills to fulfil the demands of the course
This is why entry requirements can be low. It doesn’t mean they don’t expect high quality work
*Thank you to DeMontfort University, Leicester. Some of the portfolio advice comes from a PP put together by them to support art student applications

8. What should it show?
What do colleges and universities look for in a portfolio?t do colleges and universities look for in a porfolio?
Idea generation
Idea development
Genuine interest in the subject
Creativity and experimentation
Some courses might require:
traditional drawing skills
experience using computers and software
examples of written work to support your design process
Most importantly they are looking for passion and focus about the subject you are interested in studying

9. How to construct a portfolio
Quality over quantity
Work should be laid out clearly
Logical progression of ideas
Show work in progress as well as finished pieces
Include a range of subjects and media ie 2D, 3D, printmaking, photography, especially observational drawing regardless of course
Sketchbook and sheets in portfolio
Courses will have specific requirements – read guidance sheets carefully
Look as if work has been selective
A representative selection of experience
Relevant work
Range of abilities
First and last impression
Rough work and sketchbooks
Quantity of work that reflects quantity of creative subjects studied/achieved
Spend time presenting coursework neatly and creatively
Be aware of the different styles, techniques and tools that are applicable to each subject – art and design courses vary a lot!
DO YOUR RESEARCH!
Some courses require written work in support of your idea generation, others require specific kinds of technique

10. Why is the portfolio important?
Art & Design courses are generally the only ones where an interview takes place before offering you a place
The portfolio is vital to aid the university deciding on suitability for their course
An opportunity to show off art skill
Most times it is the quality of work that gets the place rather than the actual interview

11. Getting it right No other chance to make a first impression
A well ordered Folio will show candidate in the best light
A portfolio visually communicates ideas and possible potential
Use subject tutor when putting portfolio together – get advice on the work to select. Share any guidance sent from universities on the portfolio/interview criteria

12. An example of a portfolio
Have a wow opening page
You can use plastic sleeve to display 2 A2 sheets
Some universities, colleges prefer work not to be displayed in plastic sleeves
Remember, if possible take actual 3D work so it can be fully appreciated

13. Consider double pages of portfolio
Ensure the pages compliment each other

14. Include work that demonstrates ability to work from direct observation

15. Include large bold pieces of work
Direct observational studies

16. Have boards that show work mounted work presented in an interesting way

17. Include a Critical Studies as they will want to see evidence of illustrated written work

18. Include work not yet resolved, they like to see work in progress

19. Have design ideas to show interviewer how ideas are worked through

20. Remember be selective, student will have to carry the portfolio, sketchbooks and 3D work to and from the interview
No plastic sleeves means less weight
Use card rather than mountboard

21. More advice…
Visit university websites for further advice on their specific portfolio guidance
diploma-in-art-design/portfolio-guide-films/
Feel free to stay at the end of speak to Mr Douglas or myself about any queries